WTE Miami 2024 Welcomes ProColombia as Global Guest Country and Avianca as Global Sponsor and Official Airline

WTE Miami 2024 Welcomes ProColombia as Global Guest Country and Avianca as Global Sponsor and Official Airline

Miami Beach, FL – WTE Miami is proud to announce ProColombia as the Global Guest Country and Avianca as the Global Sponsor and Official Airline for the highly anticipated WTE Miami 2024. Taking place from October 21-23, 2024, at the Miami Beach Convention Center, this year’s event is set to gather global decision-makers from across the travel and tourism sectors, including airlines, airports, tourism bureaus, tour operators, travel agents, and other industry professionals.

Olga Ramudo, shared her excitement as a Chairwoman of WTE: “Having ProColombia and Avianca as our Global Host Country and Airline respectively is a tremendous honor and a testament to the growing significance of this event. WTE is a unique event supported by Miami International Airport, the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau and Miami Dade County, by bringing together travel and tourism vendors, travel professionals, tour operators, and more, by showcasing outbound destinations and countries.

WTE Miami 2024 provides an exciting platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and discovering the latest trends and business opportunities in the travel industry. This year’s event is further enhanced by the participation of ProColombia and Avianca, with the valuable support of Miami International Airport, the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, and Miami-Dade County.

Carmen Caballero, President of ProColombia, emphasized the importance of this partnership:
“Organizing events like the ProColombia Tourism Workshop and forging partnerships with global fairs such as WTE Miami, along with strategic allies like Avianca, are pivotal in maintaining Colombia’s visibility and solidifying our position as the top travel destination in South America for US travelers. With a unique offering from over 20 companies—including tour operators, hotels, and local tourism authorities—participating in this workshop in Miami, we are not just keeping Colombia on the map; we are demonstrating why travelers are drawn to the meaningful experiences found across our six diverse regions.”

Caballero continued,
“Colombia, The Country of Beauty, continues to reach historic tourist numbers, reflecting our appeal on the global stage. We are not only achieving these milestones but also paving the way for a future where our tourism industry stands as a global example of sustainability, captivating the world with its diversity and potential.”

Tourism in Colombia Reaches Historic Figures

• In 2023, Colombia welcomed over 6 million international travelers, marking a record year for the country’s tourism industry with a 27.4% increase compared to 2022.
• The first half of 2024 saw over 3.1 million non-resident visitors, an 8.5% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
• Tourism generated more than $9 billion in foreign exchange in 2023, a 22.4% rise compared to 2022.
• Colombia is recognized as one of the 12 countries with a sustainable tourism policy and is invited to the United Nations Sustainability Week to present its progress and success stories in this realm.

ProColombia has been instrumental in promoting the country’s global appeal, which has been enhanced by a strong focus on sustainability, biodiversity, and cultural richness. Colombia’s unique landscapes and dedication to environmental protection will be spotlighted as the country prepares to host COP 16, the Biodiversity Summit, from October 21 to November 1, 2024, further cementing its position as a leader in sustainable tourism.

Avianca, the official Global Host Airline of WTE Miami 2024, continues to play a pivotal role in connecting Colombia with the world. Currently operating 15 routes between the United States and major Colombian cities, Avianca offers comprehensive non-stop connections from Miami, New York, Orlando, Washington, and Boston to key destinations such as Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, and Cali.

Rolando Damas, Avianca’s Director of Sales for North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, shared his excitement about this partnership:
“For many years, we have connected the United States with Colombia, which is why today we are excited to be together with ProColombia at the World Travel Expo in Miami, reaffirming our commitment to promoting tourism to the country of beauty. Currently, we offer the best options to fly to Colombia from 7 of the main cities in the United States. Additionally, from our hub in Bogotá, travelers can connect to 23 domestic destinations to explore every corner of the country without limits.”

The partnership between ProColombia and Avianca for WTE Miami 2024 reflects the growing interest in Colombia as a premier destination, offering unique experiences that highlight the country’s natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural heritage.

About WTE Miami
WTE Miami is an annual global travel expo designed to foster business opportunities and highlight the latest trends in the travel industry. Bringing together leaders from airlines, hotels, tourism boards, and beyond, the event serves as a key platform for industry professionals to connect, collaborate, and advance their businesses.

About ProColombia
ProColombia is the government agency responsible for promoting Colombia as a tourism, foreign investment, and export destination. By showcasing the country’s many attractions—from its vibrant cities to its breathtaking landscapes—ProColombia has solidified Colombia’s position as one of the most sought-after travel destinations in South America.

About Avianca
Avianca is the leading airline in Colombia, offering extensive connectivity across the Americas and Europe. With over 104 years of service, Avianca continues to connect travelers with top destinations, offering the highest levels of comfort and reliability.